Facilitation

What is faciliation?

Longstanding personal relationships can turn land use decision-making into a complicated process. Sometimes it’s harder to talk with siblings or parents than with business partners. Elders may claim the authority to make decisions on behalf of younger generations. Younger members may not fully grasp their future responsibilities as property owners.

How Does It Work?

As your facilitator I will encourage full participation, and make sure all viewpoints are shared and treated with respect. I will help you think about the best way to approach the people involved. This may include face-to-face large gatherings, online discussions, conference calls, and small working groups. We will set the agenda, design the process, clarify roles and responsibilities, and make sure everyone stays on task.

During discussions I will manage conflict as it arises and maintain a positive atmosphere, so that the wisest, most satisfactory decisions can emerge. Being open to other points of view often leads to better understanding, and surprisingly new ways of seeing an issue.

I use consensus building to reach agreement, working from the bottom up, rather than the top down. I begin by laying out everyone’s ideas and concerns, rather than one person’s predetermined position. I assume each person has something to contribute, and encourage those who have already made up their minds to consider other ideas. This approach helps each person, especially younger participants, grow into his or her responsibilities as a member of this group, and preserves the integrity of family relationships.

Getting Started

Contact me by email or phone to get started.